What is the ‘Winter Package’ for Pakistani electricity consumers?

ISLAMABAD – The federal government is mulling over introducing a “Winter Package” for electricity consumers as it aims at increasing power consumption to cut losses in wake of production cost.

The government is expected to reduce the electricity price by up to Rs8 per unit for three months (December 2024 to February 2025) for all consumers.

However, the relief in electricity prices will be offered after getting approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The Minister of Finance, Power Division and other relevant departments are working together to chalk out the package for the electricity consumers.

Currently, two packages are under consideration to provide relief to consumers. First, the government would cut electricity price by up to Rs8 per unit for all consumers. Second, the relief would only be provided to industries to increase electricity consumption.

If the package is extended to industrial sector, the per unit price is likely to be reduced by Rs20.

Reports said the Ministry of Finance officials and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have held discussions regarding the proposed package.

A formal report has also been submitted to IMF in response to the questions raised by its officials during the discussions.